Newsletter

Relay for Life opens at SAHS

Team members take to the track during the boxcar race at the 2011 Relay For Life of St. Augustine. Contributed photo

Move over Angelina and put away your spy gear, Tom. Relay For Life of St. Augustine is taking over the big screen Saturday and Sunday, and there isn’t room to share the spotlight.

From superheroes to penguins, there’s going to be something for everyone when the stage comes alive at noon at St. Augustine High School.

“This year is going to be our best ever,” said John Pate, event chairman. “We have a lot of creative people in our midst and I am sure it will be a production like no other.”

That production starts with an opening ceremony at noon, followed by Survivor Lap at 12:15 p.m. and continues through 18 hours of games, food and activities in an effort to raise funds for the American Cancer Society.

This year’s event isn’t just special because of its movie theme. Relay For Life of St. Augustine has been chosen as a host for The American Cancer Society’s Cancer Prevention Study — 3 research program.

The society’s newest research study, CPS-3 is open to anyone ages 30 to 65 who has never been diagnosed with cancer. It involves a 20-to-30-year commitment that includes the completion of periodic mailed surveys. Enrollment takes 30 minutes and includes the collection of a blood sample. Those interested in participating may do so the day of the relay.

“This is an opportunity for the community to come, have a blast and contribute even more to our efforts to fight this disease,” said Pate. “Anyone who meets the guidelines can help. The American Cancer Society needs 500,000 volunteers. How awesome would it be if your contribution to this study was the one that helped destroy this disease forever?”

Pate also wanted to thank all of the teams and community volunteers for their hard work these past few months and to encourage the community to come out and show its support in the fight against cancer.

“Just have some fun with us. That’s what we’re all about,” said Pate, who encouraged the community to participate in the Luminaria Ceremony at 9 p.m. “This is such a humbling experience. When you look out over the track and see all of the bags lit up representing the names of survivors and loved ones lost, it hits you. This is what we are fighting for — the promise of more birthdays and a cancer-free tomorrow.”

For information about Relay For Life of St. Augustine, go to www.staugustinerelay.com.